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on Economics of Happiness |
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Issue of 2025–07–21
eight papers chosen by Viviana Di Giovinazzo, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca |
| By: | Schmitt, Maike |
| Abstract: | This paper analyses the relation between air quality and individual life satisfaction in Germany. Life satisfaction data from the German socio-economic panel is connected with daily county pollution in terms of carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide and ozone from 1998 to 2008. The assumed microeconometric happiness function is estimated considering individual fixed effects. Ozone has a significant negative impact on life satisfaction. The effect of carbon monoxide as well as nitrogen dioxide is not significant. Moreover, I found that people with environmental worries are more affected by ozone pollution. This was not the case for people with a bad health status. Using the marginal rate of substitution between income and air pollution, it is calculated that an increase of one µg/m³ in average county ozone has to be compensated by an increase of € 11.33 in monthly net household income to hold an average individual's life satisfaction constant. |
| Date: | 2025–06–16 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:dar:wpaper:155306 |
| By: | Laetitia Dillenseger; Thi Huong Nhai NguyenAnne Stenger; Thi Kim Cuong Pham; Anne Stenger |
| Abstract: | This paper examines how different motivations for engaging in organic farming may impact the farmers’ subjective well-being using a large-scale 2023 survey database from the French Agence Bio and leveraging the multi-dimension of well-being. Three measures capturing both affective and cognitive aspects of the well-being of farmers brought by their involvement in organic farming are used: Feelings of Pride, Satisfaction, and Feeling of Happiness. We focus on the effects of two types of motivations: intrinsic and extrinsic. Our results indicate that most intrinsic motivations, including concern about public health and human health, concern about the environment, and the request for autonomy in farming decisions, significantly and positively impact both the affective aspect (i.e., Pride, Happiness) and the cognitive aspect (i.e., Satisfaction) of farmers’ well-being. In contrast, extrinsic motivations related to the request for profits earned from fair prices and the response to demand incentives exert a negative influence. Besides motivations, our multi-dimensional well-being analyses also reveal that income, farming experience and difficulty, and production types significantly impact both affective and cognitive well-being. It is shown that social comparison (income) does not matter while social ties do. Finally, some aspects of farming characteristics and lifestyle factors (e.g., number of working hours and number of vacation days) contribute to cognitive well-being, while others (e.g., support from family and others) are associated with affective well-being. |
| Keywords: | cognitive well-being, affective well-being, intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, organic farming, pro-environmental decision, subjective well-being. |
| JEL: | D62 I31 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ulp:sbbeta:2025-20 |
| By: | David G. Blanchflower; Alex Bryson |
| Abstract: | Using Eurobarometer data for 21 Western European countries since 1973 we show the U-shape in life satisfaction by age, present for so long, has now vanished. In 13 northern European countries - Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Ireland, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the UK - the U-shape has been replaced by life satisfaction rising in age. We confirm these findings with evidence from the European Social Surveys, the Global Flourishing Survey and Global Minds. Evidence of change in the U-shape is mixed for Austria and France. In six southern European countries – Cyprus, Greece, Italy, Malta, Spain and Portugal - the U-shape was replaced by life satisfaction declining in age. In these southern European countries, life satisfaction of the young has been rising since around 2015. A contributory factor is the rapid decline in youth unemployment from its 2015 peak. |
| JEL: | I31 |
| Date: | 2025–06 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:nbr:nberwo:33950 |
| By: | Loewi, Alexander Martin |
| Abstract: | To improve human wellbeing, we must understand what drives it. Life satisfaction data have been collected internationally since 2005, but without a rigorous model of what drives these outcomes, it has remained difficult to draw policy lessons. We fill this gap by aggregating life satisfaction data with nation-level data on an unprecedented number of potential drivers (n=5, 533). We use the Lasso, a computational method for variable selection, to construct a simple but highly accurate model with low risk of omitted variables or human selection bias. We show this model has higher prediction accuracy than the current world standard from the United Nations, and the variables it selects are more consistent with studies from political science, social psychology, and other fields. It also selects many variables the current world standard does not, including LGBTQ+ acceptance, gender equity, and accessible political power. Unlike the current standard, which suggests GDP determines 40% of a nation’s satisfaction, our model estimates GDP’s independent contribution at 1.5%. We also find few of the variables hypothesized by recent Nobel-awarded economics work. Finally, we show that our model is more consistent with theories of anti-authoritarian psychology than with “institutions” as a driver of national outcomes. These findings allow policy makers and advocates to prioritize higher-impact goals. It also reveals that current actions in countries across the world directly oppose predictors of satisfaction. In the face of severe global crises, including failure to keep global warming below the “red line” of 1.5C, and a rise in authoritarianism, we need far greater clarity about the future we desire as a society, and how to achieve it. As theories compete on the world stage, often violently, our model offers a simple, empirically driven message to cut through the fog: if we are to improve universal human wellbeing, there is no option but to empower individuals who truly desire that improvement. |
| Date: | 2025–06–18 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:osf:socarx:pnvcb_v1 |
| By: | Chaymae Elrhannami (UH2C - Université Hassan II de Casablanca = University of Hassan II Casablanca = جامعة الحسن الثاني (ar)); Safae Aissaoui (UH2C - Université Hassan II de Casablanca = University of Hassan II Casablanca = جامعة الحسن الثاني (ar)) |
| Abstract: | In a world marked by a constant increase in the number of users of social networks, which constantly impact all dimensions of social life, it is important to ask, how do these networks impact users' well-being. The aim of this article is to provide an adequate answer to this question through a conceptual analysis, drawing on two fundamental approaches to well-being: the Easterlin paradox and Sen's capability approach. When applied to the context of social networks, these two approaches yield two different results. Easterlin's perspective suggests a negative impact of social networks on well-being through the social comparisons they generate, coupled with the strengthening of material aspirations. Regarding Sen's approach, it assumes a favorable effect of social networks on well-being, conveyed by the opportunities and freedom of choice that these platforms provide, which can be translated into functionings and capabilities. The originality of this article lies in the fact that this subject has not been widely investigated, and it is the first article to apply the Easterlin paradox and Sen's approach to the context of social networks. We conclude that both perspectives are relevant for the analysis of the impact of social networks on well-being. Therefore, we consider that particular importance must be given by government authorities to establish necessary technological infrastructures to the fight against the digital divide, in order to ensure equal access to the opportunities that social networks offer. These measures must be accompanied by awareness-raising initiatives regarding the risks posed by these social platforms. |
| Abstract: | Dans un monde marqué par une constante augmentation du nombre d'utilisateurs des réseaux sociaux, qui ne cessent d'impacter toutes les dimensions de la vie en société, il est important de se demander, comment ces réseaux impactent le bien-être des utilisateurs. L'objectif de cet article est de fournir une réponse adéquate à cette question à travers une analyse conceptuelle, qui mobilise, deux approches fondamentales en matière de bien-être : le paradoxe d'Easterlin et l'approche des capabilités de Sen. Appliquées aux réseaux sociaux, ces deux approches produisent deux différents résultats. La perspective d'Easterlin suggère un impact négatif desdits réseaux sur le bien-être par le biais des comparaisons sociales qu'ils suscitent, couplées avec le renforcement des aspirations matérielles. Quant à l'approche de Sen, elle suppose un effet favorable des réseaux sociaux sur le bien-être, véhiculé par les opportunités et la liberté de choix que présentent ces plateformes, et qui peuvent se transformer en fonctionnements et en capacités. L'originalité de cet article réside dans le fait que ce sujet n'a pas été largement investigué, et que c'est le premier dans son genre qui applique le paradoxe d'Easterlin et l'approche de Sen au contexte des réseaux sociaux. Nous concluons que ces deux perspectives sont pertinentes pour l'analyse de l'effet des réseaux sociaux sur le bien-être. Nous envisageons ainsi qu'une importance particulière doit être accordée par les autorités gouvernementales à la mise en place des infrastructures technologiques nécessaires à la lutte contre la fracture numérique, en vue d'assurer un accès équitable aux opportunités que présentent les réseaux sociaux. Ces mesures doivent être accompagnées par la conduite d'actions de sensibilisation aux risques que présentent ces plateformes sociales. |
| Keywords: | Well-being, Social networks, Easterlin paradox, Sen’s capability approach, Bien-être, Réseaux sociaux, Paradoxe d'Easterlin, Approche des capabilités de Sen |
| Date: | 2025–05–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05062865 |
| By: | Sandra Bohmann; Susann Fiedler; Maximilian Kasy; Jürgen Schupp; Frederik Schwerter |
| Abstract: | Mental health and wellbeing are unequally distributed in high-income countries, disadvantaging low-income individuals. Unconditional, regular, and guaranteed cash transfers may help address this inequality by promoting financial security and agency. We conducted a preregistered RCT in Germany, where treated participants received monthly payments of EUR 1, 200 for three years. Cash transfers improve mental health and wellbeing. These effects are substantively large and robust. Cash transfers also improve perceived autonomy, savings, prosocial giving, time with friends, and sleep. Our findings suggest that cash transfers improve mental health and wellbeing if they empower agency and meaningful life changes. |
| Keywords: | cash transfers, mental health, life satisfaction, purpose in life, agency, autonomy, life changes |
| JEL: | C93 I31 D10 |
| Date: | 2025 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ces:ceswps:_11989 |
| By: | David Frayman |
| Abstract: | University education is known to generate significant earnings returns, but its full value may be understated without considering its wider effects on individual wellbeing. This paper estimates the complete lifetime return to higher education in the UK by combining income effects with monetised wellbeing effects. Building on recent evidence, we estimate the full discounted lifetime benefit of attending university is £146, 000 on average, with approximately one quarter of this arising from non-pecuniary gains. For students at the margin of enrolment, returns remain substantial at £78, 000. These benefits are achieved at no long-run fiscal cost to the government. |
| Keywords: | Wellbeing, education, university |
| Date: | 2025–07–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:cep:cepops:71 |
| By: | Amina Chandad (ENCGT - Ecole Nationale de Commerce et de Gestion de Tanger - UAE - Abdelmalek Essaadi University [Tétouan] = Université Abdelmalek Essaadi [Tétouan]); Mohammed Amine (ENSAT - Ecole Nationale des Sciences Appliquées [Tanger]); Mostafa Abakouy (ENCGT - Ecole Nationale de Commerce et de Gestion de Tanger - UAE - Abdelmalek Essaadi University [Tétouan] = Université Abdelmalek Essaadi [Tétouan]) |
| Abstract: | This article offers a critical literature review of the dynamics shaping the well-being of Moroccan women employed in industry, with a focus on the male-dominated automotive sector. Using a deductive meta-synthesis, the authors juxtapose global theoretical lenses—Conservation of Resources, Job-Demand – Resources, social support and social identity theories—with Morocco's cultural and socio-economic context. They identify three pivotal levers: Work-life balance – flexible scheduling, childcare solutions and family-friendly policies mitigate stress and burnout, boosting job satisfaction. Supportive and inclusive work climate – healthy relationships, open communication and formal recognition foster lasting engagement. Physical and mental-health promotion – programs encouraging exercise, good nutrition and access to mental-health resources strengthen overall well-being. The review demonstrates that employee-centred well-being strategies—intertwined with family duties and government regulations—enhance intrinsic motivation, retention and performance. The authors urge Moroccan industrial firms and policymakers to adopt holistic well-being frameworks to dismantle structural barriers and unlock women's full contribution to national competitiveness. |
| Abstract: | Cet article examine, à travers une revue de littérature critique, les dynamiques qui influencent le bien-être des femmes marocaines travaillant dans l'industrie – en particulier le secteur automobile, historiquement masculin. Les autrices mobilisent une méta-synthèse déductive pour confronter les cadres théoriques internationaux (Conservation des ressources, Job-Demand – Resources, soutien social, identité sociale) aux réalités socioculturelles du Maroc. Trois leviers majeurs se dégagent : Équilibre vie professionnelle / vie personnelle – horaires flexibles, services de garde et politiques familiales réduisent stress et burnout tout en renforçant la satisfaction au travail. Environnement de travail solidaire et inclusif – climat relationnel, reconnaissance et communication ouverte favorisent l'engagement durable. Promotion de la santé physique et psychologique – programmes d'activité, nutrition et accès aux ressources de santé mentale soutiennent l'épanouissement global. L'étude montre que ces mesures, articulées aux responsabilités familiales et aux politiques publiques, stimulent la motivation intrinsèque, la rétention et la performance des employées. Les auteurs appellent les entreprises industrielles marocaines et les décideurs à intégrer des stratégies holistiques de bien-être pour lever les barrières structurelles et maximiser la contribution des femmes aux objectifs de compétitivité nationale. |
| Keywords: | Bien-être des femmes au travail, facteurs familiaux, organisationnels, gouvernementaux motivation et engagement Workplace well-being, family, organizational, governmental factors motivation and engagement, gouvernementaux, motivation et engagement Workplace well-being, governmental factors, motivation and engagement |
| Date: | 2025–05–30 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-05100172 |